False Assumptions

Joseph Curtin discusses the assumptions about the ability of musicians to distinguish between new and old violins. He highlights the significant role of the violinist in sound perception and presents findings from double-blind experiments that challenge traditional beliefs. The results show varied preferences, with some new violins favored over Stradivarius. Curtin emphasizes the importance of understanding what to measure in violin quality and challenges the assumption that quality is obvious. The discussion includes the need for objective measurements and the complexity of subjective judgments.

What was the common belief about musicians and their ability to distinguish between violins?

• Old violins were always preferred by musicians.

• Musicians could not tell the difference between violins.

• Any skilled musician could easily differentiate between new and old violins.

• Only new violins were considered superior.

What surprising result was found in the double-blind experiments?

• Old violins were always the favorite.

• New violins were sometimes preferred over old ones.

• All violins sounded the same to the musicians.

• The experiments showed no clear favorite.

How did different violinists perceive the same Stradivarius violin?

• It was disliked by all players.

• It was only favored by beginners.

• It was seen as both the easiest and hardest to play.

• It was unanimously considered the best.

What is crucial to understand when measuring violin quality?

• The price of the violin.

• The specific phenomenon being measured.

• The age of the violin.

• The brand of the violin.

What assumption about violin quality is often taken for granted?

• Violin quality cannot be measured.

• Only old violins have high quality.

• Violin quality is obvious to any good player.

• Violin quality is subjective and varies greatly.